With 13% alcohol, the 2018 G.D. Vajra Barbera D’Alba scored 16+ points on the 20-point Dionysian scale. It cost udder $17 and had front, middle, and a back palate taste. It showed blackberry and some wood on the nose with hints of herbs. It was medium to full bodied and will age easily a decade.

Served with an eggplant and cheese dish, Italian style, and the wine opened beautifully.

This is a smart buy. Alba Barberas tend to be bigger and want some aging. This one at just two years old will develop into a beauty. In Vino Veritas.